Posted on Friday, September 29th, 2017 at 2:15 am
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident caused by a negligent or careless driver, you might be entitled to recover money from the driver who caused the crash. However, before accepting a settlement from the other driver’s insurance company, it is helpful to understand the factors that impact the amount of compensation you are entitled to receive for your claim.
It is also helpful to consult a Sacramento motorcycle accident attorney before accepting a settlement. The insurance adjuster will not tell you if you are receiving less than your claim is worth, but an attorney will protect your best interest and help you receive the most money you can for your motorcycle accident claim.
- Cost of Medical Care
The cost of medical care is a substantial factor in the amount of compensation you receive for your motorcycle accident. Because the risk of severe injuries is high in a motorcycle crash due to the lack of protection for the rider, medical bills can be very high. Typically, you are able to recover the full cost of your medical care.
- Amount of Lost Income
The longer it takes to recover from your injuries, the higher the cost of your lost wages. As with medical costs, you should be able to recover full compensation for your lost income.
- Property Damage
When another driver causes a motorcycle accident, you can recover the cost of repairs to your motorcycle. If your motorcycle is totaled in the wreck, you can recover the fair market value.
- The Type of Injuries and The Severity of Injuries
In addition to the economic compensation you can recover for a motorcycle accident crash, you are also entitled to “pain and suffering” damages or non-economic damages. Non-economic damages include physical pain, mental anguish, and emotional suffering. It also includes loss of enjoyment of life and loss of marital relations. The type and severity of your injuries have an impact on the amount of compensation you receive for non-economic damages. In addition, if you suffer a permanent disability, scarring, or disfigurement, you may receive compensation for these damages too.
- Future Economic Losses
When you suffer a permanent disability that requires ongoing medical care or personal care, you might be entitled to receive compensation for the cost of future care. Likewise, if you are unable to work because of your injuries, you might be entitled to recover compensation for future lost wages too.
- Partial Liability
If you are partially at fault for the cause of the crash, your compensation can be reduced under California’s comparative negligence laws. Because juries sometimes unjustly blame motorcycle riders because of biased beliefs, it is important to hire an experienced Sacramento motorcycle accident attorney to help you with your claim.
Do You Need an Experienced Sacramento Motorcycle Accident Attorney?
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, we want to help. Call The Tiemann Law Firm at (916) 999-9000 or by visiting our website. Our law firm serves clients in Sacramento, Folsom, Roseville, El Dorado Hills and other communities in the greater Sacramento area.
